Quick Summer Hairstyles That’s Cute

Summer hairstyles that are simple and low-effort are the only ones worth considering. After all, summer is about unwinding and skipping any unnecessary hassle, allowing you to fully enjoy the season (and soak up the sun).

“Summer hair styling is about keeping things laid-back and comfortable while still looking stylish and embracing your natural texture,” says Andrew Fitzsimons, the founder and owner of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair.

Meet the Experts

Andrew Fitzsimons is a celebrity hairstylist who has worked with icons like Madonna and Lana Del Rey.
Kiyah Wright is a hairstylist and the creator of the extension and hair-care line, Muze Hair.

“Many women are now embracing their natural hair and keeping it healthy with quality shampoo, conditioner, and leave-in treatments,” agrees Kiyah Wright. “Plus, with the summer heat, minimizing the use of styling tools is essential.” Wright also points out that summer is the perfect time for those with textured hair to co-wash, allowing for more frequent rinsing between deep cleanses.

Whether you prefer loose updos, sleek styles, or a variety of braids, these 20 effortless summer hairstyles make getting ready both enjoyable and quick rather than a chore.

Air-Dried Texture

Your natural hair texture is your best ally in the summer. “Effortless summer hair is all about wearing your hair in its natural state, whether it’s 3A or 4C,” says Wright. Step out of the shower, ocean, or pool and let your hair dry naturally—you might be pleasantly surprised by how it turns out.

Sleek Ponytail

A polished ponytail is a go-to look for the “clean-girl” aesthetic, making summer styling as straightforward as possible. “A sleek ponytail gives a refined appearance while keeping your hair off your face on hot days,” says Fitzsimons. “For an extra touch of glamour at home, try an extension like the BELLAMI x Andrew Fitzsimons ‘The Ponytail,’ which is easy to apply and can be worn from day to night.”

Boho Braids

Protective hairstyles are ideal for summer, enhancing your beauty while reducing daily styling efforts. Boho braids, which transition into loose curls, waves, and tendrils, are a trending choice for good reason. “Boho braids are perfect because the wavy hair within the braid adds a romantic touch,” says Wright, who also recommends goddess locs for a similar effect.

Relaxed Updo

Loosely styled updos, rather than tightly pulled-back ones, allow you to express your carefree summer spirit with a hint of evening elegance.

Butterfly Cut

This style is best for those with the right hair texture and a passion for blowouts, and its popularity is undeniable. “I suggest using a round brush and blow dryer to give your hair big, voluminous body with a classic blowout,” says Fitzsimons. “When requesting this look, ask for bangs that are longer on the sides and slightly shorter in the middle to create a soft, sweeping effect with plenty of layers.”

Midi Knot

Whether positioned at the back of the head or slightly higher, like Kylie Jenner’s style, the midi knot is a timeless post-swim updo that can be dressed up for any occasion, including red carpet events.

Italian Bob

The Italian bob is loved for its simplicity, making it an ideal summer cut. It’s trimmed to end just below the chin, with weight at the bottom that flatters all face shapes and hair textures. Plus, the natural volume that comes from spending time outdoors is more than just an option with this cut—it’s encouraged.

Tousled Bed Head

Some of the best summer hairstyles are about embracing what you don’t do. In this case, tousled, slightly messy, come-as-you-are waves show your commitment to the carefree summer vibe, exuding an effortlessly cool style.

Playful Pigtails

That’s right—pigtails are back in rotation. The classic double ponytail is cute, fun, and pairs well with the season’s trend toward blush-heavy makeup looks.

Beachy Waves

For a timeless warm-weather look, embrace the effects of time spent in salt water and sunshine. “Beach waves are the ultimate summer hairstyle, easily achieved by scrunching damp hair with a microfiber towel and adding a wave spray for that mermaid-inspired look,” says Fitzsimons. “For the cut, I suggest asking for long layers to enhance the natural wave pattern.”

Plaited Ponytail

Minimizing styling is a must in summer, and combing your hair into a simple plait that swings between your shoulder blades is a quick way to tame any texture without sacrificing style.

Glamorous Goddess Locs

Similar to boho braids, goddess locs are a glamorous twist on a classic style, featuring a shinier finish and partially undone ends. Teyana Taylor’s take on this style is perfect for summer, blending natural texture with partial protection for an eye-catching result.

Face-Framing Tendrils

The classic French twist, often associated with businesswomen, is making a comeback in 2024. Give it a summer twist by adding face-framing tendrils or parted bangs for a more relaxed, easy-going look.

Half-Up Hair

“A half-up, half-down style is a versatile choice that keeps hair out of your face without fully pulling it back,” says Fitzsimons. “You can elevate this look without heat styling by embracing your natural texture, leaving out your fringe for playful pieces, or even putting the top half in a bun—it’s a look you can easily customize.”

Sleek Midi Knot

The sleek midi knot delivers instant polish, keeping your hair neatly in place so you can focus on highlighting your radiant complexion and summer accessories. Use your favorite gel or oil to comb your hair into a tight, twisted bun.

Textured Updo

A slicked-back style gets a summer update when natural texture is allowed to shine through in the ponytail or knot itself.

Braid-Framed Face

Channel your inner Margot Robbie by adding two or four Y2K-inspired baby braids around your face. These soft plaits give off a carefree vibe that’s perfect for the summer season.

Effortless French Girl

This chic haircut is designed to graze your cheekbones, jawline, or shoulders, depending on your preference, and is paired with soft, easy bangs. “The ‘French girl’ cut works for all hair types, enhances natural texture, and suits most hair lengths,” says Fitzsimons.

Quick Updo

For a fast transformation from day to night, gather your hair into a loose knot or pin it up, leaving generous sections at the front to softly frame your face.

Plaited Pigtails

Finally, a pair of plaited pigtails offers a timeless way to keep your hair out of your face while giving your look a neat finish, no matter your natural texture or how long it’s been since your last wash.